The Aston Martin ‘Super Tourer’ DB12 Encapsulates Sensual Aggression

Aiming to do the undone, Aston Martin has created what it’s dubbed as the ‘world’s first super tourer’. And while the proclamation may be a stretch (the Porsche 911 Turbo has entered the chat), there’s no doubt the British marque has done something here. Ditching the gas-guzzling twin-turbo 5.2-litre V12 of the DB11, the Aston Martin DB12 forges on with a twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 that delivers 671 bhp and 590 ft-lb of twist.

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That’s enough to take it from 0-100km/h 3.5 seconds, with a top speed of 325km/h. Not too shabby for a V8. These boastfully high outputs come thanks to a slew of modifications, including larger turbos, optimised compression ratios, and better camshafts. Thermal performance has been addressed through a redesigned cooling system, which sees an additional two auxiliary coolers added to the existing central main radiator.

The Aston Martin ‘Super Tourer’ DB12 Encapsulates Sensual Aggression

The V8 is mated with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with the addition of a new electronic limited-slip differential — appearing for the first time in the DB bloodline. According to Aston Martin, “it can go from fully open to 100% locked in a matter of milliseconds, giving the driver maximum response for more precise and consistent handling.”

The Aston Martin ‘Super Tourer’ DB12 Encapsulates Sensual Aggression

Torsional stiffness has been improved courtesy of changes made to the bonded aluminium structure; namely the engine cross brace, front and rear undertrays, front crossmember, and rear bulkhead. The result? A significant improvement in rigidity and lateral stiffness, bringing about gains in suspension performance and an upped sense of driver connection.

The Aston Martin ‘Super Tourer’ DB12 Encapsulates Sensual Aggression

Employing archetypal design codes of the British marque, the DB12 is unequivocally an Aston Martin through and through. The assertive, muscular physique is defined by low and wide proportions with a two-door setup. The grille gets the supersized treatment while the frameless wing mirrors are shrunk for dramatic effect. Seamless handles and new surface detailing on the swept-back headlights contribute to the sleek effect. Taking pride of place on the nose is the newly redesigned Aston Martin wings badge, with the DB12 the first sports car to be bestowed with the marking. 21-inch alloy wheels come standard, complementing the super tourer’s wide stance.

The Aston Martin ‘Super Tourer’ DB12 Encapsulates Sensual Aggression

Jump behind the wheel and the DB12 offers a wholly new experience than its predecessor. Gone is the Mercedes-Benz infotainment system; in its place is a swanky new in-house system with dual 10.25-inch screen with surround sound by Bowers & Wilkins. The luxurious interior cabin embodies the philosophy of its self-appointed ‘super tourer’ ascription, taking on a decidedly luxurious tone. Dressed in either full Bridge of Weir leather or Alcantara upholstery and featuring a new quilting pattern, there’s an emphasis on exquisite craftsmanship and high-quality materials.

Explore the DB12 via the Aston Martin website.


Words by John Deckard